Califon is creating an Open Space and Recreation Plan

Residents of Califon

Please come to the Open Space and Recreation Plan Workshop on Wednesday, June 15^th at 7:30 pm at the Municipal Building.  Through a grant made possible by the New Jersey Highlands Council, Califon recently reexamined its master plan, which recommended the Borough update the Open Space and Recreation Plan.  The Master Plan and its elements outline goals and objectives for the Borough and plan for the appropriate use of all lands according to environmental or infrastructure limitations.  The Master Plan forms the basis for the Borough’s zoning and site development standards.

What is an Open Space and Recreation Plan? 

An open space and recreation plan is an optional element of the municipal master plan that expresses the Borough’s vision for land preservation and active and passive recreation. As outlined by the NJDEP Green Acres Program, to be eligible for grants and cost sharing to purchase lands for open space, the Borough must have an open space tax and a plan that meets certain minimum requirements, including an inventory of existing open space, identification of lands appropriate for acquisition to be used as public open space and discussion of active recreation needs within the community.

The Planning and Zoning Board, along with representatives from the Environmental Commission, Parks and Recreation and Califon Council have recently been awarded grant funding from the New Jersey Highlands Council to update the Open Space and Recreation Plan.  An important part of the planning process is public participation, and the workshop scheduled for June 15^th is the first opportunity for interested residents to provide their input on the plan.  After a short presentation by Jim Kyle, Borough Planner, residents will be encouraged to share their ideas and visions.  Please come learn about the opportunities we have through various grant programs to keep Califon’s treasures and to share your thoughts!

Last modified: June 6, 2022